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How to face a headache head-on

(NewsUSA) - Whether you are at work, at school or planning a day of leisurely activities, a headache can stop you in your tracks. More than 45 million Americans suffer from headaches that disrupt their daily routine.

"Headache pain is a real and legitimate condition," said Dr. Seymour Diamond, executive chairman of the National Headache Foundation and director and founder of the Diamond Headache Clinic.

"Because headaches can interfere with having a good quality of life, frequent headache sufferers should see a health care provider for proper diagnosis and a treatment plan specific to their needs."

Headaches can be classified into two main categories: primary and secondary. Primary headaches include the most common form of headache, known as tension-type headaches. About 78 percent of adults experience tension-type headaches at some point in their lives.

Causes may be related to chemical or neuronal imbalances in the brain or muscle tightening behind the neck or on the scalp. The pain is pressing or tightening, of mild to moderate intensity, and occurs on both sides of the head.

Another type of primary headache, migraine, affects 29.5 million Americans. Migraines are characterized by throbbing pain on one side of the head and are often accompanied by nausea and light sensitivity. Triggers may be individual or a combination of diet, activity, environment, emotions, medications or hormones. Migraines can last anywhere from four to 72 hours.

Unlike primary headaches, secondary headaches are caused by another disease or condition such as aneurysm or meningitis. These headaches can be life-threatening, so immediate evaluation by a doctor is recommended.

For most primary headache sufferers, there are basic, practical steps that can be taken to help enhance quality of life. The National Headache Foundation offers the following tips for headache sufferers:

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